Captivating musical performances under star-lit skies. Deeply resonant spiritual blessings delivered by a peaceful, flowing river. Family and friends gathered around tables, savouring dishes passed down through generations. From bustling Tokyo to the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, the sharing of these rituals unites us – guided by the unique traditions of the people and places that hold them dear. Across its constellation, Aman celebrates the festive season, giving meaning to the present and offering inspiration for the year ahead.

At Amanjiwo in Java, the year draws to a close beneath the ancient silhouette of Borobudur, where the celebration of Memayu Hayuning Jiwa unfolds over two unforgettable days. Beginning with a bregada procession and a ritual of light, the experience combines feasting, traditional performances and ceremonial blessings to welcome the new year and culminates in a soul-cleansing Ruwatan ceremony at the Progo Riverbank, releasing that which no longer serves the spirit and offering auspicious wishes for the months ahead.

In Bhutan, celebrations at Amankora see guests gather for spirited archery competitions – an ode to the country's national sport – before coming together for a community tree planting, performances of Bhutanese folk tales and blessing ceremonies led by local monks. At Amanbagh in Rajasthan, New Year's Day begins with a temple prayer for peace and prosperity, followed by a much-loved camel polo match accompanied by the rhythmic beat of dhol drums and warming cups of spiced chai.

Elsewhere, festive rituals unfold through music and performance. At Aman New York, guests are invited to step behind the scenes of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, while at Aman Venice, an afternoon of opera and carols with Coro de Manos Blancas honours the moving and unifying power of music. Wellness, too, takes centre stage, for instance in sound healing sessions at Aman Tokyo, guided meditation at Aman Le Mélézin or oceanfront yoga and breathwork at Amanwella. For a serene start to the year, Aman Kyoto offers Zazen meditation led by a Zen monk and a tea ceremony hosted by a tea master.

Across the Aman globe, these rituals set the tone for extraordinary festive stays, with programming spanning movement, music, craft and culinary artistry. Together, they form Rituals of Joy – a collection of celebrations rooted in the cultures and traditions of each Aman destination.

To book your Ritual of Joy this festive season, contact the Aman reservations team at Aman.com